Apple Component Orders Down (AAPL)

Making its way around the
Web today: A research report from earlier this week by FBR
analyst Craig Berger, who says that Apple has recently cut its
iPod, iPhone, and MacBook "build plans" --- in other words, the
number of units it plans to manufacture during the quarter.

Specifically, Berger says Apple has cut its iPod and iPhone build
plans 60% from calendar Q4 to Q1, more than the 50% q/q cut
Berger previously estimated. He also says Apple has cut its
calendar Q1 MacBook build forecast 50% q/q, which he previously
estimated at closer to 35% q/q. Meanwhile, he says the company
has increased iMac build units 35% q/q, which he
previously estimated would be flat q/q.

It's important to note that Berger's initial order drops of 50%
weren't based on slackening demand -- they were made well in
advance, because Apple's seasonal sales drop from CQ4 to CQ1. But
if Berger's channel sources are right, these incremental cuts are
certainly bad news.